[The dependence level of the elderly person influences the risk of infection].

OBJECTIVE: Assess the impact of the reduction or loss of autonomy of the elderly in the nosocomial infection risk.

METHOD: Using Karnosfsky scale (KPS). This study involved 163 patients aged 65 and over hospitalized for medical reasons.

DATA COLLECTION: KPS index, body mass index, Index Norton, bladder's drainage system at the entrance and during hospitalization, colonization of resistant bacteria (BMR) at entry and during hospitalization, antibiotic use at entry and during hospitalization, infection at entry and during hospitalization.

RESULTS: There is a statistically significant relationship between the degree of autonomy and the index of risk of pressure ulcers (Norton), between the degree of autonomy and the use of bladder's drainage system, between the degree of autonomy and risk acquisition of BMR, between the degree of autonomy and the nosocomial infection risk.

CONCLUSION: The level of dependence increases the risk of infection nosocomial: loss of autonomy is a risk factor for infection. The evaluation of the degree o autonomy of elderly patients at entry and at regular intervals is essential in ou view a policy of reducing nosocomial infections.